TAIPEI - Taiwan's ban on the use of plastic bags and disposable plastic tableware got off to a messy start on New Year's Day.

Operators griped about the confusing rules and expensive paper alternatives, while customers complained about the inconvenience the new ban caused.

The criteria set by the authorities were so complicated and confusing that even environment inspectors sent to check on the operators were stumped.

The head of the Environmental Protection Administration, which pushed for the ban, embarrassed himself when he was grilled about the new rules.

Asked whether small plastic dishes for holding chilli or soya sauce can be used, Mr Hau Lung-pin said: 'Yes, they are not banned.'

The answer stunned his inspectors because all plastic containers are not allowed in restaurants after the ban took effect on Jan 1.

The EPA first banned the use of plastic bags and tableware last July at canteens in government departments and enterprises, military units, schools and public hospitals.

It extended the ban to all 76,000 restaurants, small eateries, department stores, fast food chains, convenience stores, supermarkets and hypermarkets from Jan 1.

Operators who flout the ban face fines of between NT$60,000 (S$3,030) and NT$300,000.

But the EPA has given them a 45-day grace period, so only those caught after Feb 15 would be fined.

Under the complicated rulings, no establishments can use plastic bags thicker than 0.6 mm, but they can use small plastic wraps on food.

Plastic or polystyrene cups are banned, but plastic lids are allowed.

But the ruling that operators found absurd was the one that allowed plastic containers to be used at food and drink stands that do not provide tables and chairs.

'It's ridiculous to ban us from using plastic containers, while allowing others to break the rule. What kind of logic is that?' asked an angry owner of an American-style breakfast eatery, who tossed a warning ticket issued by an EPA inspector into the trash bin.

The owner said he would defy the ban and continue to use the plastic containers even after Feb 15.

'With such a small business, I can't afford to pay for the costly paper substitutes,' he said.

The price of paper containers has tripled since last July.

As supply cannot match growing demand, many operators continue to use plastic utensils.

The owner of a Chinese-style breakfast eatery has already thought of a way to bypass the ban and avoid a fine - he intends to remove all tables and chairs after Feb 15.

The ban has also irked many customers, who do not like the paper substitutes.

'Some paper containers do not hold hot soup well,' said office secretary Chen Li-fang.

Analysts said the government should have devised ways to help operators, especially the small eateries, through the transition period.

Anger over the ban would only nullify efforts to protect the environment, they said.